Hi, Lydia:
Honestly, if I had to give an account of this academic year in Budapest, I would not know where to begin. Making the decision to come here was not easy, I do not think it was easy for any of us, but looking back I regret nothing.
On the one hand, it has been a radical change. A period of independence. Living on your own, growing up, becoming mature, having to fend for yourself, being responsible. This year has taught me a lot. I have learned to plan my time and to value things more.
On the other hand, it has helped me to open my mind. I have met people from a thousand places, I have learned their cultures, and I am lucky to be able to say that I have friends, true friends, the ones that are counted on the fingers that one hand, in Israel, Greece, Portugal, or Turkey. And this is something that I take with me forever.
Regarding studies, it has also been a great change. The work here is very different in comparison to other countries, it is very practical and there are only oral exams. This helps you assimilate what you have learned in order to apply it later on, it is not just meaningless memorising. Of course, my level of English has greatly improved, you need to learn to communicate and put aside embarrassment and fears, and, once you do that, you can get by perfectly. Furthermore, at the College they will help you from the first moment, and the organise parties, international days, talent shows, excursions… in order to integrate us more.
Lastly, I love Budapest as a city. I have been lucky to live in a central area, and in one of the most beautiful ones, close to the river. It is also worth knowing that there is a great party and student atmosphere. And there is time for everything: to go out, to have fun, and to study.
In my case, I have been admitted to Semmelweis, which was my first option from the beginning. This has proved that if you set yourself an objective, you fight for it, and you put all your effort into it, you will achieve your goals. That is why I recommend the Pre-Medical to every student, it is not a lost year as many might think at first, I thought so too before I came here, but now my opinion is entirely different.
That is all for now, I have attached some pictures from this year. If you want, I can send you more. Thank you so much for everything.
María Fernández. May 2012
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